Since its hasty and messy creation in 1947, Pakistan has repeatedly
been in the world news. It has experienced more turbulent internal
events and been involved in more dramatic external ventures than most
countries. These include partition, wars, coups, the Afghan resistance,
internal dissension, and terrorism, as well as a recent deadly earthquake.
Nevertheless, it has remained manageable and even made progress, in
cluding with its economy, which has grown faster than most. Given its
size and location, Pakistan still plays an important role in the region,
and what happens there is significant for the world arena. Despite the
intensive—if sporadic—media coverage, Pakistan is only superficially
known outside its borders.
These facts enhance the value of this updated and substantially ex
panded third edition of Historical Dictionary of Pakistan. Covering the
past as well as the present and looking at ordinary aspects as well as the
sensational, it gives us much of the indispensable background that is
missing in the day-to-day coverage. It reaches back into history to ex
plain how and why Pakistan was founded; it sheds light on the political
system and the economy; it provides insight into social, cultural, and re
ligious factors; and it tells us about the often imposing figures who have
led the country. This is done through concise but informative entries in
the dictionary, which are placed in context by an extensive chronology
and an overarching introduction. Those who want to know more can
consult the bibliography